SmartRemarks

First things first:  after what we’ve suffered through in recent years, merely being able to say “Governor Pat Quinn” is almost as delightful as being able to say “President Barack Obama.” 8-) 

After a mere seven weeks in office, Illinois’ new governor has a budget proposal ready, and he gave a formal address in Springfield yesterday announcing it. I listened to the whole thing on Chicago Public Radio, unfiltered and uninterrupted, no sound bites, no spin. (Who doesn’t love public radio?) Anyone who missed it can listen here, or read the full text here (courtesy of  the Tribune’s Eric Zorn).

It was a strong speech, and it sounds like a courageous budget—tackling some issues that state government has been dodging for years. There will nevertheless be a great reactionary hue and cry (as the comment thread on the Trib’s initial article demonstrates) because it includes a small income tax increase.

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